Last chance derby for Madrid

Derby fever has taken over the Spanish capital. Five days away from hosting Atlético at the Bernabéu, Real Madrid is deep in the crisis brought on by its own Black Week. It all began with consolidating its loss of top spot in its Champions League group in the match against City, followed by a surprise defeat against Betis which left it trailing Barça in La Liga by eleven points.

With tensions running high at the home of the 'Blancos' and following the Alcoyano formalities, Simeone and his team will visit the Bernabéu. They do so with the biggest points advantage in recent seasons: eight points to their credit over their arch-rivals. It is true to say that these derbies have been 'Blancos' territory over the last three years but Real Madrid and Atlético have swapped roles this time round. Everything is optimistic and calm in the Atlético camp with good results and absolute faith in Simeone.

Doubts are rife at Real Madrid. Mourinho has fallen out with people left, right and centre, the players seem far from their best form and the continuous loss of points in relation to Barcelona has become almost impossible to pull back.

No one in their right mind at Real Madrid is talking in terms of winning la Liga. They all know that making up eleven points on Barcelona is too great a feat. It is clear, however, that, if there is a last shred of hope remaining, it all hangs or falls on the derby.